Best kick return options for Kansas City Chiefs in 2022

May 26, 2022; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco (10) runs drills during organized team activities at The University of Kansas Health System Training Complex. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
May 26, 2022; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco (10) runs drills during organized team activities at The University of Kansas Health System Training Complex. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports /
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Kansas City Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco (10) Mandatory Credit: Jamie Sabau-USA TODAY Sports
Kansas City Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco (10) Mandatory Credit: Jamie Sabau-USA TODAY Sports /

#1: Isiah Pacheco

Running back Isiah Pacheco is the odds-on favorite to be the Chiefs’ primary return man in 2022. Fans can thank Toub for that easy answer.

During the Aug. 10 press conference, Toub touted Pacheco’s long leash as the Chiefs’ prospective top kick return option.

"“We’re going to give him every chance to be that guy,” Toub said About Pacheco. “I just think he has all the attributes to be a good kick returner. He’s gotten better and better at practice, he’s doing little things better, he’s catching the ball great. Now we have to see what happens with live bullets. When guys are coming down there to take your head off, it’s a little different.”"

Pacheco has not done much to discourage Toub or fans through two preseason games. He has two kick returns for 60 yards against the Bears and Washington Commanders/ His 30 yards per return average is the best on the team, making the return job his to lose.

Pacheco’s reps and snap counts point to him having a role in the Chiefs offense, as well as special teams. Pacheco’s physical abilities, like quickly shifting gears and explosive cuts, will be on full display on kick returns. This is a great opportunity for him to see game action, without having to be an every-down back. But, no matter his offensive workload, Pacheco is the clear top kick return option. In 2022, fans will be seeing a #10 jersey streaking down the field on kick returns once again.

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